Susice grabs win at Merrittville

From Jim Irvine - Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

Thorold, Ontario (June 6) – Inclement weather on Friday leading up to Merrittville Speedway’s first event of June meant for a rough night for several of the Thorold track’s Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Drivers Saturday June 5th.



“It’s my 1st career Merrittville "big car" win!” posted Ryan Susice post race on his Face Book page, “So pumped right now! Thanks everyone for helping!”



Susice a former Kart Racer took control of the 25 lap Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Feature crossing the start-finish line to start lap 8 by the slightest of margins – six thousandths of a second on the Lucas Oil Live Leader Board – overtaking rookie Jamie Gilbert.



Gilbert took over top spot from sophomore driver Len Dignard who had led from the start – surviving two restarts in the early going.



Brandon Easey followed Susice – overtaking Gilbert and the two broke away from the pack. By lap 15 the leaders were into lap traffic with Easey catching up to the leader until Susice regained a healthy lead.



In the closing laps, Cody McPherson was on the move and challenging Gilbert for third – eventually taking over the show spot. By the checkered flag – Jim Johnstone would also get by Gilbert who held on for fifth.



“My car has been a little hit or miss the last few weeks,” informed Susice, “thanks to the track for getting the show in … I am sure everyone would rather be here than sitting at home.”



“The last part of the race … I knew something was up,” confirmed runner-up Brandon Easey after noticing that his left front tire was going flat in the post race interview.



“I was hoping for a caution,” added third place finisher Cody McPherson, “ I wanted to see if I had anything for them … but 16th to 3rd is a good night!”




For complete results from Semenuk’s Esso Night at the Races visit http://www.speednetdirect.com/results.php?track_id=8430

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